Dolphins Elevate Gonzalez, Llewellyn to Active Roster
Miami elevates kicker Zane Gonzalez and edge rusher Max Llewellyn for Sunday's game while releasing kicker Riley Patterson.
Updated on Oct. 31, 2026 in Football
The Miami Dolphins elevated kicker Zane Gonzalez and edge rusher Max Llewellyn to the active roster for Sunday's game and released kicker Riley Patterson. Gonzalez signed with the Dolphins practice squad on October 20 and kicked in last week's win over the Jets.
Why it matters
The roster moves give Miami a kicker who made all four extra points against the Jets and an edge rusher who has already appeared in two games this season. The changes address kicking and edge depth for the Dolphins as they prepare for their next game.
Gonzalez hit 19 of 22 field goals and 17 of 18 extra points in nine games for Atlanta last season. Llewellyn has appeared in two games for Miami this season, including Sunday's victory over the Jets.
The players
Zane Gonzalez
Zane Gonzalez is a 31-year-old placekicker who previously kicked for the Atlanta Falcons and is now back with Miami's practice squad.
Max Llewellyn
Max Llewellyn is an edge rusher whom the Dolphins selected in the seventh round after a five-year career at the University of Iowa.
Miami Dolphins
The Miami Dolphins are a professional American football franchise based in Miami, Florida, that competes in the National Football League.
The details
Gonzalez, 31, was placed on injured reserve in August and released with an injury settlement on August 19 before signing with the practice squad on October 20. Llewellyn, a seventh-round pick after a five-year career at Iowa, made his NFL debut in Week 2 against the 49ers.
Timeline
August 19: Gonzalez released with an injury settlement.
October 20: Gonzalez signs with the Dolphins practice squad.
Week 2: Llewellyn makes his NFL debut against the 49ers.
Last week: Gonzalez kicks in the Dolphins win over the Jets.
Sunday: Gonzalez and Llewellyn are elevated to the active roster.
Season Trajectory
Miami's kicking and edge changes come as the team manages depth through the season under the NFL's practice squad elevation system. The moves give the Dolphins short-term flexibility without requiring permanent roster commitments.
Fantasy managers tracking kickers should note Gonzalez's extra point accuracy against the Jets. Llewellyn's active status gives Miami another edge option for Sunday's game.
The takeaway
Short-term elevations let teams cover injuries and depth needs without committing to permanent roster changes. Fans tracking the Dolphins should watch whether Gonzalez and Llewellyn retain active roster spots beyond Sunday.
Further reading
Find more on Miami Football coverage of the Dolphins' roster decisions.
